New York State’s Mobile ID (MiD) program has reached a significant milestone with over 200,000 enrolled users in 2024, marking rapid growth from the 100,000-user milestone achieved in its first six months. The digital identification system, which provides smartphone-based versions of state-issued driver licenses, learner permits, and ID cards, has shown strong adoption since its initial launch in June 2024.
The digital ID system has expanded its acceptance to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints at more than 100 airports nationwide, including four New York facilities: LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy, Syracuse Hancock, and Stewart International airports. The implementation follows similar successful deployments in other states, including Virginia and West Virginia, enabling faster identity verification during security screening processes.
Following an October 2024 advisory from the New York State Liquor Authority, establishments with liquor licenses can now accept Mobile ID for age verification during alcohol sales. The expansion builds upon the program’s initial pilot in Rochester, where the system was first tested for age verification at local establishments. The system’s security features include biometric authentication through Face ID or Touch ID, as well as PIN-based access options.
“We’re thrilled that more than 200,000 New Yorkers have embraced this revolutionary technology that enables secure, contactless identification right from your phone,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “Whether you want to get through airport security or order an alcoholic beverage, Mobile ID is raising the bar on the way New Yorkers can verify their age and identity, offering greater convenience and privacy.”
The enrollment process requires users to download the New York MiD app, register their phone number, photograph their physical ID, and complete a selfie verification. The system cross-references this information with Department of Motor Vehicles records to verify authenticity, following standards established by the ISO 18013-5 specification for mobile driver’s licenses.
“So much in today’s world happens on your smartphone, and Mobile ID’s strong growth in less than 10 months shows that so many New Yorkers have wanted a simple and secure way to access their driver license, permit or non-driver ID directly on their device,” said New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder.
The platform features strong privacy protections that meet recommendations from the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence. Personal data is stored exclusively on users’ devices through encryption, and information sharing requires explicit user consent through secure digital channels, eliminating the need to physically hand over devices during verification processes.
Sources: Governor Kathy Hochul’s Office, CNMV, Gadget Hacks
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